Discover how to guide clients through every stage of the career decision-making journey with confidence and clarity. This course—part of the Fundamentals of Career Practice Certificate—explores practical tools, models, and strategies to help clients evaluate options, overcome challenges, and set achievable career goals.

Description

This two-course module explores the Career Decision Making (CDM) process and the role of Career Development Practitioners. It examines a structured CDM model, including its strengths, limitations, and adaptation for diverse clientele. Key topics include decision-making styles and influences, as well as strategies for supporting clients through job loss. Participants will learn to navigate each step of the CDM process—self-evaluation, exploring career options, decision making and planning, and SMART goals—using assessment tools and current labour market information.  

Competencies to be Developed (Competencies based on National Competency Profile for Career Development Professionals)

• Professional Responsibility (1.1) – Deliver services within scope of practice 
• Diversity and Inclusion (4.1) – Respect diversity and inclusion 
• Professional Development (6.1) – Engage in lifelong learning 
• Awareness of Diverse Worldviews (13) – Develop tailored approaches for client populations 
• Career Resources (14.1) – Maintain and deliver career resources 
• Career Resources (14.2) – Maintain current knowledge of labour market 
• Career Resources (14.3) – Use assessment tools and approaches 

Learning Opportunity

By the end of this course, you will be able to: 

1. Explain the role of Career Development Practitioners in helping clients with Career Decision-Making (CDM). 
2. List factors that influence Career Decision-Making. 
3. Describe the Career Decision-Making process. 
4. Explain how to carry out the initial intake process with clients. 
5. Explain how to assist clients in identifying their needs, interests, values, skills and personality within the context of Career Decision-Making. 
6. List tools and resources available to assist clients through the four stages of the CDM process. 
7. Describe how to gather accurate and current labour market information to assist decision-making. 
8. Identify situations where the needs of the client are beyond your scope of practice as a Career Practitioner and refer clients on to suitable supports. 

Course Structure

This course is self-paced and will take approximately 4 hours to complete.

Part of the Fundamentals of Career Practice Certificate

This course is one of six that make up the Fundamentals of Career Practice Certificate. Complete all six to deepen your core competencies and earn a comprehensive credential that supports inclusive, client-centred career development.

Purchase this course on its own or as part of the six-course Fundamentals of Career Practice Certificate.

Assessed Learning

Completion of this learning plan will award you an Assessed Learning NSCDA Microcredential to recognize your achievement.